Liverpool fans may have to pay for Man Utd’s ‘Wembley of the North’ stadium under controversial plan

Liverpool fans could play a surprising role in funding Manchester United’s proposed new stadium, according to recent reports.

Incoming minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is said to be eager to replace Old Trafford with a modern facility, envisioning a “Wembley of the North” to compete with the iconic national stadium in London. Ratcliffe, a billionaire in the petrochemicals industry awaiting Premier League approval for his United stake, reportedly views the project as essential for the club’s future.

A source close to Ratcliffe explained, “He feels the club need an absolute state-of-the-art, knock-it-out-of-the-park, ‘wow’ stadium.”

“And we feel there’s a strong argument for the country having a top-class major venue in the North – a Wembley of the North.”

According to reports, Ratcliffe aims to keep the new stadium situated near or adjacent to the current Old Trafford location, which has been Manchester United’s home for over a century.

United currently possess approximately 43 acres of land surrounding Old Trafford, presenting ample opportunities for redevelopment. Additionally, roughly a quarter of the total land adjacent to the stadium, estimated at approximately 100 acres, remains unused, offering further potential for expansion and development.

According to the Telegraph article, Ratcliffe would also advocate for ‘Levelling Up’ funds from the UK government to assist with financing the project, which might end up costing up to £2 billion.

If taxpayer funds are used to help fund the stadium, supporters of Liverpool, Manchester City, and Arsenal will all be required to contribute to United’s new home.

People who have advocated loudly for the need to upgrade Old Trafford include Gary Neville.

“Maybe what Liverpool have done is the way forward,” he told Sky Sports late last year.

“If there is a shortage of funds, maybe get one or two stands, absolutely world-class, and the other two follow up over the next five to 10 years. That would be a plan.”

He added: “I’ve heard that there is only a couple of hundred million of pounds or so being spent on Old Trafford. That’s nowhere near enough.

“I’d rather have £200m spent on the old stadium and have two parts of Old Trafford looking absolutely amazing.

“It’s important that you have pride in where you play and Old Trafford is an amazing stadium.”